Paraboot x Universal Works.

26.03.2026

For our winter collaboration, we spent time at Paraboot’s factory in Lyon, France, this time we invited them to spend time with us in London for a bit of a "cultural exchange". We of course had to give them a glimpse of a classic British pub, the streets of Soho, and the rooftops of Heatherwick Studios, where our two brands discussed the history and the design choices behind the "Thiers" shoe that we have revisited.

Read more about our time together here, and watch the video where UW Co-Founder David and Pierre from Paraboot, took a closer look at the footwear.

Browse the collection here.

Paraboot x Universal Works: a collaboration built on shared values of honesty and attention to detail, and part two under the tagline “La Beauté Dans L’Imperfection”, or "The beauty in the imperfection”.

The focus this time is another iconic shape, Thiers, a style first made in the 1970s. Taking its name from the French city, it was a style designed to bridge "sport” and "city”, "sport/ville”. We chose it for its preppy, boat shoe good looks, plus its comfort and practicality.

“It’s always been a shape that I’ve worn, and it’s really comfortable. It’s that kind of city-boat shoe for me.”—David Keyte.

Like our first collaboration, each shoe carries the debossed message "La Beauté Dans L’Imperfection” and is made using a combination of both the smooth side of the leather and the textured suede-like reverse. They are unlined for a lighter, softer, more summery feel with removable kiltie fringing to add a playful element. Available in two colourways: coffee and sand.

I’m still astonished they let me write “the beauty in the imperfection” on their shoes!

Alongside sits a small clothing capsule, again using graphics repurposed from vintage Paraboot advertising campaigns. This time bearing the phrase "Il n’y a plus de kilomètres", or "there are no kilometres”. A message of longevity and durability, meaning that no matter how far you walk in your Paraboot shoes, they will be with you.